Ederson acknowledges that he and ex-Barcelona defender Grimaldo will be difficult for Benfica to retain, but also believes that his former club will recover from the sales to chase down another title – with a record-extending 36th crown secured in 2016-17.

He told Record: “Of course it will be difficult, but I have total confidence that we will achieve the 37th this season.

“Benfica lets three players out but then stabilises quickly. In recent years it has always been like this, it is a club that has formed great players.

“For example, I think Benfica will not be able to hold on to Grimaldo and Nelson Semedo for long.

“Football has become a business and those who have more money have the best players.”